With just over 12 minutes to play in the first period, Vegas forward James Neal corralled a pass with his stick and skated past Capitals defender Dmitry Orlov. Neal then sent a shot over the shoulder of Holtby and into the top corner of the net to put the Golden Knights ahead 1-0.

Washington held a 3-2 lead with just under 17 minutes to play when forward Tom Wilson was called for an interference penalty. Less than a minute later, Eller was sent to the penalty box for hooking, handing Vegas a five-on-three advantage and a chance to tie the game.

The Golden Knights tallied nine shots during that time but failed to score and the Capitals were still on top at the end of the power play.